NORWICH - The Chenango County Health Department is hosting a drive thru flu vaccination event at the Chenango County Fairgrounds at 168 East Main Street in Norwich from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday October 7, for ages 10 and older.

The cost is $17 for age 19 and older, no cost for age 10 to 18. You must pre-register for an appointment time using your desktop or laptop at health.ny.gov.

Vaccination is the best way to avoid contracting influenza. Many of the signs and symptoms of the Flu are similar to those of COVID-19 so it can become difficult to identify which illness a person may have without performing additional tests.

The flu vaccine provides many individual health benefits including keeping you from getting sick with the flu or reducing the severity of your illness if you do get flu. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.

We are limited to 200 doses for this event. No walk-ins. You can also call 607-337-1660 if you need assistance registering for the event.

We urge you to get a flu shot this year. You can visit our local health department, your healthcare provider, or your local pharmacy. If your insurance does not pay for vaccines or you are uninsured, we can help.

Signs and symptoms of flu

People who have the flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:

Fever or feeling feverish/chills. Cough.

Sore throat. Runny or stuffy nose. Muscle or body aches. Headaches. Fatigue (very tired).

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

How flu spreads

Most experts believe flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or nose. Proper handwashing is very important.

For more information, access https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- Information form the Chenango County Health Department